Understanding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Rule

The key factor SSA considers is whether your work activity meets the threshold of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).

• In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,550 per month in gross earnings.
• For blind individuals, the limit is higher.

If you consistently earn more than the SGA limit from part-time work, SSA may decide you are capable of substantial work and stop your benefits.

How the Nature of Work Matters

SSA also looks at the type of work you do—not just your earnings. Even if you earn below the SGA limit, SSA may question your eligibility if your work shows you can perform tasks similar to those you would do in a full-time job.

For example:

• If you work part-time in a job requiring high physical demands despite claiming severe mobility issues, SSA may doubt your disability claim.
• If your work is sedentary but consistent and productive, SSA could see it as evidence you could work full-time.

Trial Work Period and Extended Eligibility

If you are already receiving SSDI, you may be allowed to test your ability to work through a Trial Work Period (TWP).

• During TWP months, you can earn more than the SGA limit for up to 9 months without losing benefits.
• After that, you enter an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), where earnings above SGA could stop your payments.

Reporting Requirements

You must report any work activity—full-time or part-time—to SSA immediately. Failure to report could lead to overpayments, which you may be required to pay back.

Risks of Part-Time Work During the Application Process

If you are applying for SSDI in Arkansas and working part-time, SSA may be more skeptical of your claim. Even modest work can lead them to question whether you are truly unable to perform substantial work.